Army Veteran Honored by UW Bothell

Every year, University of Washington Bothell recognizes a student who has overcome serious obstacles, and the 2018 recipient of the Chancellor’s Medal certainly fits the bill.

Biology major Clinton Foriska, 31, served in the Army twice over a 10-year period, with a 2009 deployment to Iraq that left him with neck, back, and ankle injuries, and post traumatic stress disorder. While attending college, he’s also been battling cancer. “I guess I do what I can to overcome whatever circumstances,” Foriska said in a statement.

“Like with cancer — change my lifestyle, change my diet, and in the meantime, try to not let it get the best of me. I keep a good attitude, I guess.”

Upon graduating from UW Bothell, Foriska plans to attend the Yakima-based Pacific Northwest University to obtain a degree in osteopathic medicine and care for his fellow veterans.